Academic Scholarships

Every Spring, the Pacific & Asian Affairs Council offers the following academic scholarships and awards for local High School students who exhibit profound academic achievement, interest in global affairs, admiration from their community, and commitment to PAAC Programming. All scholarship and award recipients are formally recognized at the annual PAAC Student Showcase in May, and their achievements are highlighted through PAAC’s Communication channels.

Check out our recipients from:
Academic Year 2023-2024 >
Academic Year 2022-2023 >

The application window has closed for this this year’s academic scholarships and awards.

The next application cycle will begin February 2026.

The late Paul S. Honda, a distinguished member of PAAC’s Senior Advisory Council, established an endowment for this scholarship fund to promote Asian Studies and International Studies in higher education.  Every academic year, four $1,000 scholarships are given in his name to graduating seniors who have demonstrated a desire to pursue Asian Studies, International Affairs, or a related field at the post-secondary level, and have been actively involved in PAAC Programming.

Required Materials with application:

  • Two Essays

  • Transcript (Unofficial)

  • Two recommendations from a teacher or trusted community member

Application Closed

Paul S. Honda Scholarship:

PAAC Seniors

The legacy of Eddie Tangen, a pioneer in the development of Hawaiʻi’s labor movement and past member of PAAC’s Board of Governors, is honored with a $300 award given yearly in his name to one student* in grade 9, 10, or 11 who has demonstrated interest in international affairs and is actively involved in PAAC Programming. This award is only available for members or officers of a PAAC Club and the recipient is chosen via nomination process.

Nomination requirements:

  • Nominations can be submitted by a PAAC club advisor or student in a PAAC Club

  • No more than two candidates may be mentioned per nomination

  • Students cannot nominate themselves

  • Nominations are considered by quality (not quantity)

Nominations Closed

Eddie Tangen Award:

Calling Club members & advisors

For questions or inquiries regarding Academic Scholarships and Awards, reach out to Cheyenne Prater (program@paachawaii.org)

Programs